Republican Pat McCrory is taking the oath for North Carolina governor early rather than waiting another week for the pomp of inauguration weekend.

McCrory and his Cabinet will be sworn in during midday ceremonies Saturday inside the old Capitol building in Raleigh. The incoming governor and other Council of State members still will be publicly installed and feted during the outdoor inauguration and parade Jan. 12.

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The former Charlotte mayor decided to get sworn in Saturday so his administration would be in place when the newly-elected General Assembly convenes next week and chooses leaders.

McCrory will hold open houses from Asheville to New Bern next week before the festivities revert to Raleigh with the ball and public ceremonies.